A joint security operation has rescued 10 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) who were abducted by suspected kidnappers in Kogi State, according to the Kogi State Police Command. The victims were rescued from Egume Forest in Ofu Local Government Area on Monday, following a sustained, intelligence-driven operation.
The corps members were among 15 individuals abducted last Wednesday along the Aloma-Egane Expressway while travelling from the NYSC orientation camp in Bayelsa State to Abuja . The kidnappers had reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦20 million for each corps member from their families. The rescue operation, which involved personnel from the police, military, Department of State Services (DSS), and other auxiliary forces, is still ongoing as security agencies work to locate and rescue the remaining five victims.
The Police Public Relations Officer for the Kogi State Command, ASP Afusat Saliu, confirmed that the operation was launched to secure the safe recovery of the victims, dismantle criminal elements operating in the area, and bring the perpetrators to justice. The command emphasized that security forces have intensified their presence in the area and are actively pursuing the attackers. Police Commissioner Naziru Bello Kankarofi commended the personnel for their gallantry and resilience, and also thanked local residents for providing credible information that was critical to the success of the operation.
President Bola Tinubu also expressed relief and commended the security forces for the successful rescue of the 21 abductees, which included 15 corps members and six other Nigerians. The President said the rescued victims are receiving medical attention and will be reunited with their families, while security forces continue to trail the kidnappers . The Defence Headquarters later clarified that 21 victims in total have been rescued from the Egume-Ochaja forest, with 15 of them being NYSC members. The DHQ has urged the public to remain calm and vigilant and to report any suspicious activity that could assist in rescuing the remaining victims.
Winners: The rescued corps members and their families; the joint security forces. Losers: The kidnappers, who failed to collect any ransom and are now being actively pursued.
Bottom Line: A joint security operation successfully rescued 10 of 15 abducted corps members in Kogi, with efforts ongoing to free the remaining victims and apprehend the kidnappers.